Book Review: The absent dialogue: Politicians, bureaucrats, and the military in India, by Anit Mukherjee (original) (raw)

Anit Mukherjee's The Absent Dialogue provides a fresh perspective on the dynamics of Indian civil-military relations, highlighting the dysfunctional nature characterized by 'the absent dialogue.' Key factors identified include military autonomy, lack of civilian expertise, and bureaucratic control, which hinder military effectiveness across various domains such as weapons procurement and professional military education. The book is well-researched, drawing on primary documents and interviews, and underscores the urgent need for institutional reform and improved communication between military and civilian leadership.